Vetter Thunderbolt Jacket

VETTER THUNDERBOLT JACKET

CW EVALUATION

A coat of many duties

FEW THINGS ARE AS VERSATILE AS A jacket that works well as riding gear and that also looks great for casual wear when you’re off your bike. Vetter’s Thunderbolt jacket ($366.99 suggested retail from Vetter dealers) is just such a garment.

The dark-brown, nylon-lined. Thunderbolt, available in S, M, L, XL and XXL sizes, is cut full, and features a removable mouton collar and a zip-out pile lining. Closure is via a brass zipper and top-and-bottom snaps. Knit sleeve-ends snuggle around the wearer’s wrists and keep air out. Two exterior slash pockets are provided for hand-warming, and the jacket contains a single interior pocket to hold valuables.

We found that the Thunderbolt, when used without its pile liner, was at its best in mild temperatures; and even with the liner in place, the jacket wasn’t very effective when temperatures dropped into the 50s. For riding in truly cool weather, keeping warm required additional clothing. At least the Thunderbolt’s blousy cut and pleated back provide plenty of room for a sweater or fleece under-jacket.

We didn’t use the jacket’s mouton collar while riding, as its bulk interferes with the bottom of a helmet. Also, we think its method of attachment-loops and buttons, and a strip of velcro—is a bit tenuous. Nevertheless, we think the Thunderbolt is attractive and useful as a piece of riding gear that doubles nicely for casual use. We’ll use it for both. £1